An access panel on an Ella walk-in tub is one of the removable panels on the front apron, typically two per tub, that gives service access to the pumps, heater, control boxes and plumbing without pulling the tub out. Owners also call them apron panels, front panels or skirt panels. Whatever you build around the tub must keep these panels removable.

How It Works

The front apron is attached with clips, screws, velcro tape or magnets depending on the model, and on most tubs it has two easily removable panels. Behind them sit the air and water lines, the pump and in-line heater, the control boxes and the grounding straps, all bundled neatly so everything can be reached from the front. On a magnetic panel, simply pull gently away from the frame from one corner, no tools needed, and set it back against the frame so the magnets catch. Our planning service access article includes a video tour of what is behind them.

Which Ella Models Have It

Every Ella walk-in tub is built with removable access panels. The Standard and Zen platform has two panels held with screws under screw caps. The Ultra has four magnetic panels. The Ultimate and the Zen60 place their two panels on the door side so a 60 inch tub in an alcove can still be serviced from the front. On LayDown tubs the side panels and the front apron are removable as long as nothing is tiled in front.

What to Know as an Owner

• The serial number label sits behind the magnetic access panel next to the door on most models, on the inside of that panel. Our model and serial number guide shows where to look.
• Never tile in front of the apron. Keep tile, trim and flooring clear of the apron line so the panels stay removable.
• Do not pack insulation around the equipment. Overheating damage from insulation counts as misuse.
• All panels, aprons and end panels must come off before the tub is carried, and the tub is lifted only by the frame. See delivery day.
• Cutting the apron or end panel for a recessed installation voids coverage on the altered parts only; the rest of the tub stays covered.
• For a ticket, pull the panel beside the door, photograph the serial label and the equipment area, and have your model ready at ellasbubbles.com/support. Our cords and control boxes article shows what you are looking at.

Common Questions